Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a serious mental condition that may appear after witnesses a horrifying and/or traumatic event. Although it is most often associated with those in the military, it can occur in anyone who has experienced trauma. In fact, even those working in traditional occupations may develop PTSD.

The big question many people want to know is, "Is PTSD covered by workers compensation?"

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Workers Compensation

You might be surprised to learn that PTSD is covered by workers compensation. However, it does have one major caveat. You must be able to prove that your PTSD developed while on the job—and that can be tricky.

In general, workers comp claims due to PTSD fall under two major categories:

• Developed While on the Job: This type of post-traumatic stress disorder is usually brought on by a horrifying experience at work. For example, a police officer witnesses a tragic murder.
• Developed by Situations at Work: This type of PTSD is usually triggered by a circumstance or situation at work that relates to the past. For example, a teacher witnesses a child being abused and was abused in the past; this brings up stressful or traumatic memories.

Although each case is covered by workers compensation, the second category is much harder to prove.

Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

If you suddenly notice a change in your mental health, it is possible you may be suffering from PTSD.

How do you know? Some common symptoms include:

• Reliving the Event: You may notice yourself reliving the event days, weeks, or months after the incident.
• Feeling Numb: You may notice that you no longer have loving feelings. You may also notice that you have no feelings towards specific people, activities, or things.
• Mood Swings: You may notice a sharp increase in your mood swings, with the inability to control your emotions.
• Feeling Shame or Despair: You may notice that you feel ashamed of yourself. You may also feel depressed, hopeless, and lost on a regular basis.
• Physical Manifestations: You may begin to notice physical symptoms that occur for no reason.

All of these symptoms can signify that you are suffering from PTSD. If you notice any of these symptoms developing after witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event, visit your doctor for diagnosis and treatment immediately.

Filing a Workers Comp Claim

If you believe that you are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder that developed at work, you can—and should—file a workers compensation claim. However, you should first visit your doctor and a psychiatrist first to document your mental health condition.

Once you have the necessary legal documentation, you should meet with a workers comp attorney and file your claim immediately. Workers compensation claims often have strict—and quick—deadlines, which must be met in order for your claim to be approved.

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